Alison Stuart's Blog, page 17

From Scotland to Australia... Author Maggie Christensen

Aussie authors are taking the world by storm (due in no small part to the work of  Romance Writers of Australia). I love showcasing my fellow Australians... and of course I also love the fact that although we all call ourselves Australian, we come from such divergent backgrounds. This is Australia in the 21st century.
Today's guest, MAGGIE CHRISTENSEN, came from chilly Scotland to the warmer climes of Queensland where she now lives.
Born and brought up in Scotland, and attracted by advertisements to ‘Come and Teach in the Sun’, Maggie Christensen emigrated to Australia in her twenties to teach in primary schools in Sydney. She now lives with her husband of almost thirty years near Peregian Beach on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland. She loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the Noosa River on weekends. After spending many years in teaching, lecturing and education management, where she wrote course materials and reports, Maggie began writing the sort of books she enjoys reading, books about women in their prime, their issues and relationships. Now her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven! She continues her love of books as a volunteer with Friends of Noosaville Library where she helps organise author talks and selects and delivers books to the housebound.  Visit Maggie at her WEBSITE
Maggie is offering three copies of her latest book in a Goodreads Giveaway. You can enter directly from the links on this page.
Maggie, I recently enjoyed a cup of tea on your blog, Café Cala and I am delighted to reciprocate. What is your preference in the way of tea?
Thanks so much for inviting me to tea, Alison. You moved from Scotland to Australia at a time when Australia was actively recruiting young teachers from the British Isles to teach in Australian Schools. I’m not sure if you have ever seen the movie “Wake in Fright”, but I would really like to know more about why you chose to make the move to Australia and what you found when you got here?
I have seen the movie and, fortunately my experience was nothing like that! I had the travel bug so after teaching for three years in Scotland I decided to look for teaching position overseas. The options were US, Army schools in Germany or Australia. I didn’t want to go to the US – strange, as I subsequently married an American, the Army schools required a three year commitment while I could come to Australia for only two years. Also I had a great aunt who married an Australian soldier during the First World War and grew up with stories of mad Australian soldiers who visited my family during the Second World War. It sounded like an exciting place.
When I arrived I stayed in an immigrant hostel in Marrickville (central Sydney) for two weeks with other single teachers before finding my own accommodation. After a two week orientation to teaching in New South Wales, I was sent to the outer western suburbs, a long train trip from where I was living. I wasn’t impressed.

This is me with the first class I taught in Australia – note the class size and the fashion! (AS:  Love the skirt... but you look so YOUNG!)


After two years of working in State schools I moved into the private school system which I found much more to my liking and more similar to the schools I had taught in back in Scotland.
I loved the Australian weather from the start and spent the first few years feeling I was on a perpetual holiday.
How did you move from Primary teaching to University level teaching?
My school principal encouraged me to engage in further study, but this led me to a situation in which the school couldn’t afford my qualifications. I moved to teach in a parent co-operative school (a wonderful experience) then to become a tutor in a private college of teacher education. When I was part-way through my Master’s degree I was successful in gaining a position at Goulburn Teacher’s College, which was subsumed into Riverina Murray College of Advanced Education, which became Charles Sturt University. It had always been a dream of mine to be involved in teacher education and I loved teaching at the tertiary level.
You are married to a man from Santa Barbara… how did the two of you meet?

Jim and I met when I moved to teach at Riverina. I had fought against the move, trying to find a position in Sydney instead. But when I moved, there he was. He had emigrated there some years earlier.  He invited me to dinner on my first day in the office and – as he often tells people – I haven’t gone home yet! My advice to everyone is – seize every opportunity as you never know what it might lead to.
What (or who) was the biggest influence in starting your writing career?
I have always wanted to write fiction but became caught up in the demands of my day job where I was involved in writing course materials, reports, submissions and academic papers. I initially tried to write about younger heroines, but when I began to read Liz Byrski, Anna Jacob’s contemporary novels, Joanne Trollop, and Marcia Willett, I realised the books I wanted to write were the ones I enjoyed reading – books about women like myself who had experienced more of life’s challenges. I began writing these books when I was facing a redundancy like the heroine in my next book, The Sand Dollar.
As a hybrid writer (traditional and indie published) myself, I am interested in why you chose to go the self publishing/indie route and how you have found the experience?
Initially I attempted to go down the traditional route contacting agents and publishers, but found my writing didn’t suit their lists. I suspect it was because my heroines are older women. So I decided to self-publish and began my research. In the process I have found a wonderful editor, and cover designer and formatter, both of whom live in England. I really believe this makes communication easier as I can send off an email in the evening and waken to find their reply in my inbox. I have also built up a good relationship with our local bookshop owner, where I am having my formal launch at the end of this month. I like the control self-publishing gives me, although I sometimes think it would be useful to have the marketing arm of a publisher behind me. I know there is a market out there for my books – it’s a challenge, as an indie author, finding the best way to tap into it.(AS:  I agree that indie publishing opens up options for those of us who don't fit neatly into the "boxes" dictated by the mainstream publishers.  You are also lucky to have a good relationship with your local bookshop...That has not been my experience.)
Your debut novel Band of Gold is a contemporary story set in Australia. What was the premise behind this story?
The book focuses on the situation faced by Anna when her husband of twenty five years leaves her on Christmas morning. It follows her life through the next year as she attempts to leave the past behind and forge a new life for herself. Some years ago I heard of a woman to whom this happened and it stuck in my mind. When I stared writing I began to wonder what might happen next, and Anna and Marcus came into being.
ABOUT BAND OF GOLD
Anna Hollis believes she has a happy marriage. A schoolteacher in Sydney, Anna juggles her busy life with a daughter in the throes of first love and increasingly demanding aging parents.
When Anna’s husband of twenty-five years leaves her, on Christmas morning, without warning or explanation, her safe and secure world collapses. Marcus King returns to Australia from the USA, leaving behind a broken marriage and a young son. When he takes up the position of Headmaster at Anna’s school, they form a fragile friendship through their mutual hurt and loneliness.
Can Anna leave the past behind and make a new life for herself, and does Marcus have a part to play in her future?  ·      Buy links for the book Amazon, Barnes &Noble, The Book Depository, Smashwords: 

EXCERPT FROM BAND OF GOLD 
I begin to run. If I can run fast enough maybe I can forget, forget that my husband has abandoned me, that, at the ripe old age of forty-seven, I’ve become a statistic, an abandoned wife, a single mother.
By the time I stop, the beach has become deserted. It’s too early for the evening parties and too late for the family gatherings. I gaze along the sand, deploring the debris my fellow humans have left behind and begin the run back. Halfway there, the memory of Sean’s face at the breakfast table rears up again and I slow to a halt and drop to my knees in despair, tears once again streaming down my cheeks.
‘Are you all right?’ The voice comes from somewhere above my head. I look up into a pair of concerned brown eyes framed by black-rimmed spectacles. Floppy brown hair is falling over the lenses and, as I look, a hand pushes back an errant lock.
‘Are you all right?’ the voice repeats. ‘Is there anything I can do?’

I rise slowly, gulping back the tears, embarrassed to have been caught in such a state. ‘I’ll be right, thanks.’ I brush the sand from my knees and I wish I could brush away his presence as easily. ‘Really,’ I assure my prospective rescuer, and run on, feeling his eyes boring into my back as the distance between us lengthens. 
ENTER MAGGIE'S GOODREADS GIVEAWAY
  

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          Goodreads Book Giveaway                                             Band of Gold                         by Maggie Christensen                                       Giveaway ends July 31, 2014.                                   See the giveaway details             at Goodreads.                                     Enter to win

CLAIMING THE REBEL'S HEART is on sale

... for 10 days. Only .99c on Amazon and Goodreads.

http://www.amazon.com/Claiming-Rebels...

As the English Civil War divides England and tears families apart, Deliverance Felton will do whatever it takes to defend her family home against the royalist forces ranged against it. Anything she needs to know about siege warfare she has learned from a book...but no book can prepare her for Luke Collyer, soldier of fortune and a man with his own secrets.



Alison Stuart

Claiming the Rebel's Heart is on sale...

As we in the southern hemisphere shiver in the depths of mid winter and our friends in the northern hemisphere cavort in the sun, there is always time for reading a good historical romance.
Which is why I am offering CLAIMING THE REBEL'S HEART as a winter/summer holiday read at the sale price of .99c (on Kindle and Smashwords) for the next 10 days :-)

You can read an excerpt from CLAIMING THE REBEL'S HEART and the blurb on my website. Click HERE ... but rather than repeat it all again, the following is one of the 5 star reviews from AMAZON:
"Claiming the Rebel’s Heart is a MUST READ for fans of this genre! Alison Stuart’s beguiling tale transported me back to the time of the English Civil War, when Parliamentary forces were pitied against the supporters of the King, a conflict that tore families and communities apart. This book is one of my top picks of the year so far and its hero and heroine,Protestant Deliverance Felton and soldier of Fortune Luke Collyer, one of my favourite couples! The author’s skilled prose and characterisations immersed me into the time period and I was hanging on every word, and hankering for their HEA.

Deliverance rails at being a woman in a man’s world and I absolutely adored her strength and the clash of wills when Captain Luke Collyer appears with his band of men, intent on relieving her of control of protecting her beloved home. Luke has never met a woman like Deliverance, who seems immune to his usual charm, and he cannot bend her to his will, however he is nevertheless fascinated by her. Deliverance is equally drawn to Luke and there is a great deal of sexual tension between the couple as they are torn between desire for each other and duty to protect the castle and its inhabitants, without succumbing to the distraction of their mutual passion. The scenes where Deliverance and Luke vie with each other over ultimate control of the castle’s defences are so entertaining and such a pleasure to read. Deliverance and Luke are a well matched couple, complementing each other well and bringing out the best in each other, although sparks do certainly fly!

Their tender romance is played out during an increasingly brutal siege and the author has clearly done her homework in terms of her knowledge of the weapons, tactics and behaviour that was commonplace at this time. Not everyone in the castle is what they seem and it is only a matter of time before their valuable food supplies run out, compelling their surrender. How can the couple sustain their burgeoning romance when there are threats from their enemies, possible traitors in their midst, secrets from Luke’s troubled past and the differences in their station, Luke being a common soldier and Deliverance a Lady?

All the characters within the novel are equally well drawn from the Royalist enemies, Deliverance’s sister Penitence and her erstwhile suitor, Jack, who is on the side of the Royalists and Luke’s comrade Ned Barrett. I enjoyed them all and I will be checking out the other books this author has written set in this time period, namely By The Sword and The King’s Man. I recommend this novel to all lovers of romance, but especially those who love historical romance." (TINA - UK)
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For those not on Kindle, CLAIMING THE REBEL'S HEART is available in all formats on SMASHWORDS:  Click HERE. The sale price will eventually filter through to Barnes and Noble, Kobo and iTunes directly...

A "Chance" meeting with Anne Gracie (and a fun giveaway!)

AG as Dame Babs at a RWAus party I have a very special guest with me today... Anne Gracie.  Anne and I are "twins" (in  the sense we share a birthday) and in the dark days when it looked like Romance Writers of Australia may fold, Anne was one of the stalwart band who came to the party with her Capricornian good sense. We have been good friends ever since and I have to confess I am a huge fan of her books! (I have an Anne Gracie shelf).

One thing I love about Anne is her sense of fun. She is responsible for introducing fancy dress into the Romance Writers of Australia conference, for which I will always thank her... and just to illustrate how similarly we think...We randomly turned up to one cocktail party dressed as the Elizabeth Peters's characters from THE CROCODILE ON THE SANDBANK.  My husband and I went as Amelia and Emerson and Anne turned up as "the crocodile on the sandbank". Totally unplanned!


The cast of The Crocodile on the Sandbank
Apart from being a fabulous writer of Regency Romantics, Anne is also one of the best teachers of the subject I have ever come across and on 23rd August and 13th September she will teaching a couple of writing classes at Ripponlea, for the National Trust of Victoria, as part of their wonderful Love, Desire and Riches —the Fashion of Weddings exhibition.  If you are interested in attending, classses are limited to 20 and cost $25 and are worth every cent! To book click HERE

Anne, you and I have shared many a cup of tea (and many glasses of something stronger). In honour of your Malaysian connections, I have sourced the finest Boh Tea from the Cameron Highlands. I hope that will suit?

Thanks so much for inviting me, Alison. Boh tea would be lovely. I have very fond memories of staying in the Cameron Highlands.


Anne age 7Your parents were teachers with a yen for adventure so as a child you lived all around the world. What influence did your parents and their peripatetic lifestyle have on you as a writer?

I think it made me quite adaptable, but also very self-sufficient. It also made me somewhat of a hoarder, as so many of my prized possessions were jettisoned as we moved from place to place, that once I grew up, I tended to keep everything. I'm trying to overcome that now.




At school in Scotland Why did you decide to follow in your parents footsteps and become a teacher? Do you still teach?

It was a terrible shock to me, as growing up in a family of teachers -- and being the youngest -- teaching was the very last thing I wanted. However in my final year of high school, my inner-city academic high school took in its first intake of local kids, and found they needed help, so they started a cross-age tutoring scheme. I became fascinated with kids and learning difficulties, so much so that instead of doing a law degree, I changed to arts and education. I've never regretted it. I loved teaching.

I no longer teach in schools, but still teach writing from time to time.

You have been a huge influence of many young up and coming writers in your career (including me!) as a teacher, what started you on your own writing career?

Thank you. I've always had stories in my head, but while I was teaching I was so busy with the classes and many extra-curricular activities, they were swamped. But then I took long service leave and went backpacking solo around the world, and lo! the stories started to spin in my head again and I wrote them down in exercise books. I came back with a firm plan to try to get published.

What advice do you offer to aspiring authors?

Read widely, write the kind of books you'd love to read, join a writers' organization (Romance Writers of Australia is brilliant) and do a writing course. And write, write, write. Writing is like a muscle -- the more you do the stronger it gets.

You are currently into your third series of Regency Romances, the first being the Merridew Sisters, the second the Devil Riders and the current series, the Chance Sister. What are the pleasures and pains of writing series?

The pleasures are that you're building a world and a community of people, and I really enjoy that. I also love it that readers enter and enjoy those worlds and write to me with opinions and requests for the story of this minor character or that. That's very satisfying.

The pains? A slight pain is that if another idea is calling to me, I have to set it aside and stick to the contracted book. But once I get stuck into a book, I'm so deep in that world it doesn't matter. And this is not a pain, but more of a challenge — that because I don't plan all my books out in advance, I can sometimes be starting a book that's part of a series, and have no idea where the story is going to go, only who the hero or heroine is. It's a challenge I enjoy, though. A third thing that's also not really a pain is that readers can keep requesting books, so I've written a trilogy of four books, a quartet of five books (and a sixth requested regularly by readers) and all I can say is thank goodness there are only four seasons, which will presumably limit my seasonal brides book. Though there is a possibility that there might be a Christmas Bride, too.

Congratulations on your RITA nomination for the first book in the Chance Sister series, The Autumn Bride. I know this is not your first RITA nomination but from a personal point of view how important is to receive these nominations?

Thank you. I'm always thrilled to receive a RITA nomination. This is my fifth. It's an award chosen by writers, so it's lovely to have peer recognition. And as a writer who battles constantly with self-doubt it's very reassuring to be nominated again.

The Winter Bride (with its gorgeous glacial cover) was released a couple of months ago? This is the second book in “Chance Sisters” series, for anyone not familiar with the background, what is the premise behind this particular series?

The Chance sisters series is about four girls who come together in adversity and vow to be as sisters. A desperate act introduces them to an aristocratic, eccentric old lady, who then decides to present them to society as her nieces. It's a fun, rags-to riches adventure, with each book about each sister's journey to happiness.

Anne is giving away a copy (print or digital) of her RITA finalling book THE AUTUMN BRIDE (see below for details)


Governess Abigail Chantry will do anything to save her sister and two dearest friends from destitution, even if it means breaking into an empty mansion in the hope of finding something to sell. Instead of treasure, though, she finds the owner. Lady Beatrice Davenham, bedridden and neglected. Appalled, Abby rousts Lady Beatrice's predatory servants and — with Lady Beatrice's eager cooperation— the four young ladies become her "nieces," neatly eliminating the threat of disaster for all concerned!
It's the perfect situation, until Lady Beatrice's dashing and arrogant nephew, Max, Lord Davenham, returns from the Orient — and discovers an impostor running his household. . .


ABOUT ANNE
Anne Gracie spent her childhood on the move when her father's job took them around the world. The gypsy life taught her that humour & love are universal languages and that favorite books can take you home, wherever you are.
First published by Harlequin, and with eleven historical romances published by Berkley/Penguin, Anne is a nationally bestselling author in the US, has won numerous awards, is a lifetime member of Romance Writers of Australia and feels very lucky to have the life she does.
Visit Anne at her website or on Facebook. Anne blogs regularly with the wonderful Word Wenches. 

BUY Anne's books at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Indie Bound or the Book Depository (free postage worldwide!). In Australia you will also find them on fishpond.com.au

TO WIN a copy of the AUTUMN BRIDE... leave a comment telling us which covers you prefer! The winner will be randomly chosen but it will be fun to see which covers attract you the most! (Don't forget to leave your email address!!!)


THE WINTER BRIDE:  A or B? THE AUTUMN BRIDE:  C or D?

A B


C D
BUY ANNE'S BOOKS ON AMAZON

A Pearl of a Wedding Anniversary

I have been married for thirty years... I have to keep saying that to myself because in so many ways, it seems like only yesterday when I was a young bride -- a very young bride by today's standards (I was 25). In my wedding dress I look like a little china doll. Oh to have that figure back again! 

30 June 1984They say it is good fortune if it rains on your wedding day and on 30 June 1984 it poured. It was also terribly cold (mid winter in Melbourne) and I have to confess, the bride is wearing a spencer under her wedding dress. Always a sensible Capricorn! Like all wedding days it passed in a blur. Back in those days, we still changed into "going away" clothes and left the wedding reception after tossing bouquets and in a shower of confetti... I remember shaking confetti out of our luggage for years afterwards. We arrived in Sydney that evening and collapsed exhausted on to the hotel bed where we ate our way through the mini bar and spent our wedding night watching The Nun's Story on the TV. Beat that one if you dare...

You have to love a man who comes with his own sword...
My husband, "D", is an intensely private person but he has been beside me now for over half my life so I will spill a few beans. We met doing Officer training for the Army Reserve.  At a time when long hair for men was de rigeur and my father lived in fear of me bringing home a boyfriend with hair past his shoulder, I had to wait for D's hair to grow back after a particularly vicious military haircut before I introduced him to friends and family.

Puckapunyal 1981... I am in the front row and D is in the row behind my left shoulder...before we were 'going out"If you are into horoscopes then it is hard to find two more compatible signs than Capricorn and Taurus... both earth signs and supposedly practical and down to earth. On the whole we've made a good team and despite his profession on national TV about why he never buys me flowers ("I hate to manipulate her emotions"**), I see the little signs of devotion in the door knobs that get tightened without me asking and the endless soaps and shower caps he has produced from his travels. We don't talk about the Christmas I got one pearl earring ("But it's your birthday in 3 weeks!"). That is taking practicality too far! For the record I wore those pearl earrings to dinner on our anniversary - it was, after all, our pearl anniversary!

And somehow we have managed to bring up two beautiful sons - or maybe they managed to bring themselves up despite their parents. 


Fiji 1984We celebrated our wedding anniversary by going back to the island in Fiji where we spent our honeymoon. The quiet little resort was now no longer little (or quiet... note to self, avoid school holidays) but we cocooned ourself in our beachside bure, staggering the ten feet to the beach, snorkelling on the reef and reading loads of books and just enjoying a few days of just being ourselves. 


So thank you, D, for thirty wonderful years... and here's to another thirty! 

Fiji 2014**ABC Art Nation April 2010 http://www.abc.net.au/arts/stories/s2881298.htm

Regency with the heat turned up... Meet Amy Rose Bennet

It is always exciting to interview a debut "new to you" author.   Amy Rose Bennett has  always wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember. An avid reader with a particular love for historical romance, it seemed only natural to write stories in her favourite genre.  She has a passion for creating emotion-packed—and sometimes a little racy—stories set in the Georgian and Regency periods. Of course, her strong-willed heroines and rakish heroes always find their happily ever after.
Amy is happily married to her own Alpha male hero, has two beautiful daughters, a rather loopy Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Devonshire Rex cat with attitude.  Ms. Bennet, you are most welcome to join me today. I love your author picture but I suspect that is a cup of coffee you are clutching… so what will it be today, coffee or tea?
Most definitely coffee, Ms. Stuart if you don’t mind. And thank you so much for having me. (Although I might be tempted to partake in a gin and tonic with you if it’s later in the day…I have some Tanqueray Ten stashed nearby… ) And thank you also for your kind remarks about my author picture. This photo has special significance for me as it was taken on an overseas holiday in Scotland—a happy snap at breakfast whilst staying at a Victorian hunting lodge in the Speyside area. I so love Scotland. (AS:  Oooh... Tanqueray 10 is my favourite! George, fetch the tonic water and the slices of lemon!)
What or who inspired your love of historical fiction and do you have a particular period of history you are passionate about?
Charlotte Brontë was the writer who inspired my love of historical fiction—which I suspect is the case for many other historical authors! (AS: It certainly was with me... Jane Eyre remains my "go to" story)
I have a vivid childhood memory of seeing a 1970’s movie version of Jane Eyre. I was so entranced by the story, I borrowed the book from my primary school’s library and read it (I think I was only 9), probably not understanding half of it I’m sure. Nevertheless, I just loved the characters and the gothic nature of the story. I’ve been enamoured of historical set novels ever since.
I love reading and writing stories set in the Regency and Georgian periods. I particularly love anything and everything to do with the Jacobite Rebellion—the ’45. Scottish history, the clan system and the rugged beauty of the country fascinate me. I recently discovered that my great grandmother was Scottish so perhaps that helps explain my obsession…plus who doesn’t love a Highlander in a kilt? (AS: As long as he's had a bath!)
Holyrood Abbey, Scotland What kicked off the decision to stop tinkering and start writing seriously?
I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to take some time out from my usual day job as a Speech Pathologist in 2012, so it was then that I decided to finish writing my first book—a Jacobite Rebellion tale—that I’d started 8 years before. It just felt like the right time to give into my inner muse. I’m so glad I did!
Is there still a ‘day job’ to distract you from writing?
I worked last year, but for now I’m just focusing on my writing. I’m looking at moving interstate at the end of this year so I’ll most probably go back to my day job, in my new location. But now I’ve written two full length novels, two novellas with a third book on the way, I know I’m completely addicted to writing and will keep at it, regardless.
You are an emerging historical romance writer… That all important “first toe in the door” is your steamy historical novella, AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION.  Do you enjoy writing on the hot side… and do you think that will be the path your writing will take you? 
AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION—published by Steam eReads—is a story that I wrote for a bit of fun, as well as to challenge myself to write something that was a little different i.e. a short story that was essentially an erotic romance. My other two novels are both over 100, 000 words with quite complex plot lines.
I definitely prefer reading and writing stories in which the bedroom door is left wide open. I love how a really well-written love scene has so many layers to it—it’s not just about describing the physical side of the relationship. There’s a certain challenge (for me as a writer) in ensuring the scene furthers the plot in some way, as well as showing how the emotional connection develops between the hero and heroine. AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION’s love scenes are a tad hotter than the scenes in my other stories—although not by much. I don’t see myself becoming solely an erotic romance author though. I have too many full-length stories running around inside my head!
When I look at the formidable number of contests in which you have been successful in a very short period, apart from being green with envy,  I cannot help but wonder how long until we see your “Dark Regency” LADY BEAUCHAMP’S PROPOSAL on our bookshelves?
LOL! I have entered quite a few contests haven’t I? Not only have I grown as a writer through entering contests, I certainly think that my successes have helped me on my journey to publication. Which leads me to say I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve recently signed with Secret Cravings Publishing! LADY BEAUCHAMP’S PROPOSAL –a full length ‘Regency noire’ style novel—is scheduled to be released in August this year. I can’t wait! (AS: Excellent news! Congratulations!)
AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION  Fraternizing with one’s footman—no matter how young and handsome he is—is not the done thing…but Lady Bianca Wells is going to do it anyway… Widowed countess Lady Bianca Wells secretly lusts after her much younger, rakishly handsome footman Harry Blake. Even though he has been in her employ for six months, she has not succumbed to her indecorous urges to take him as a lover… until one wicked night at an isolated country inn when she throws caution to the wind and offers Blake a wholly improper proposition.Harry Blake, the bastard son of a duke and governess, is the epitome of the perfect footman, except for one thing—he fantasizes about seducing his beautiful mistress. When Lady Wells proposes that they become lovers for one night only, he is torn. Even though he wants her with every fiber of his being, he suspects that forbidden fruit once tasted, can be awfully addictive. He wonders if one night of passion will be enough, for either of them—especially now that he realizes he might very well be falling in love with his bella Bianca.But when all is said and done, Blake can hardly refuse such a tempting proposition, no matter how unwise or improper. He just prays that he can put a smile on his mistress’s beautiful face…
AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION is available from SteameReads, Amazon and all reputable Ebook retailers. 

You can visit Amy Rose Bennett at her website,  Facebook or follow her on Twitter: GIVEAWAY: if you like your historical romance on the warm side, pop in a share a gin with Amy and I and go in the running to win  an Amazon copy of AN IMPROPER PROPOSITION.

Any Excuse for a Party! A good old fashioned book launch...

Book launch 2007When my first books were published - way back in the dark ages (2007), a friend insisted that there should be a proper book launch for the two books and promptly went ahead and organised one for me. I realised then that writing a book is a big thing, getting it published even bigger but celebrating it is so important.  This is the book baby you have slaved for months if not years over and it deserves a rite of passage that marks its transition from hope to reality.

There followed a long hiatus while I laboured away at the OTHER career which meant that my next book did not come out until 2012 (GATHER THE BONES). What a difference 5 years had made. This was to be a digital only publication but remembering that actual book launch, I felt it still needed a party to mark its entry into the book world so I organised my first "virtual" book launch - on my Facebook Author Page and I have to say I had as much fun as I did at that first actual book launch but by the time books 3 and 4 came out, everyone was doing FB parties and it was hard to engender the same sense of fun.  

So LORD SOMERTON'S HEIR came into the world on 1 May with very little fanfare... until my friend Beverley Eikli emailed me with a suggestion I could not refuse... a REAL book launch but with a bit of a difference. Let's make it an event to remember - books, music, wine, cheese... and so the ideas started flowing.

Beverley and I write similar books - historical romances with meaty plots so we are a natural fit - the only difference being her MAID OF MILAN has a print edition (and it will be in bookstores), while LORD SOMERTON'S HEIR lives in the cloud which meant I only had copies of my other books to sell on the day, not the book I was actually launching.

What the hell... let's do it anyway! 


Paramoor Winery was booked, a fabulous string quartet (La Fraternita Solisti) organised, cheese (Gippsland Cheeses) and chocs (from Daylesford's Chocolate Mill) purchased, my dear friend, award winning poet, Chris Ringrose bludgeoned into agreeing to read a couple of poems and on a cold, damp winter's afternoon the crowds arrived for the Eikli/Stuart book launch.

The lovely venue at Paramoor winery - perfect for a cold winter's day
It must have been a good party... because I can hardly remember anything about it! One glass of wine and one cracker with cheese was all I ate but so many people to talk to... so many wonderful friends who had made the trip up from Melbourne. Wonderful friends and family who helped out... children having a great time, people talking about books and writing. Chris set the mood with his poems and my lovely friend and multiple award winning writer, Fiona Lowe did the honours, officially launching our books.
Beverley and Alison standing in the wings...
Fiona Lowe sending the book babies out into the world.Thank you Beverley for making the suggestion and thank you to everyone involved in contributing to such a fabulous afternoon - there are too many of you to mention by name but you know who you are! Two days later and I am still buzzing. 

And best of all, thanks to the generosity of our guests and our sponsors, we raised $300 for a cause close to my heart, Alzheimers Victoria

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A brilliant day and I heartily recommend an actual book launch, even if your book is virtual!  And it is much more fun sharing the event with someone else. Thank you Beverley!

Eikli/Stuart... so excited they can't stand still long enough to get their photo taken!

On Tour: Jessica Jefferson - Compromising Miss Tisdale + Giveaway

"Not since the Bennett's have sisters enjoyed such romantic escapades!  Mother-hen Ambrosia, the warm and witty Lillian, hoyden Tamsin, and mild-mannered Rose try to navigate through their own respective romances while weaving in and out of each other's.   Follow each of the Tisdale sisters as they stumble through love. "

Basking in the warm glow of Regency Romance, it is my pleasure to introduce debut Regency Romance author, Jessica Jefferson.
Jessica Jefferson makes her home in northern Indiana, or as she likes to think of it – almost Chicago.  Jessica originally attended college in hopes of achieving an English degree and writing the next great American novel.  Ten years later she was working as a registered nurse and reading historical romance when she decided to give writing another go-round.   
Jessica writes likes she speaks, which has a tendency to be fast paced and humorous.  Jessica is heavily inspired by sweeping, historical romance novels, but aims to take those key emotional elements and inject a fresh blend of quick dialogue and comedy to transport the reader into a story they miss long after the last page is read.  She invites you to visit her at jessicajefferson.com and read her random romance musings. You will also find her on Facebook and Twitter. 
COMPROMISING MISS TISDALE is the first book in a series of four on the escapades of the Tisdale sisters... beginning with Ambrosia.
ABOUT COMPROMISING MISS TISDALE
Ambrosia Tisdale is the very picture of propriety and the epitome of what a respectable young lady should be. Haunted by a memory and compelled by her family, she pursues perfection to a fault.
The Earl of Bristol, Duncan Maddox, has returned to London after years of familial imposed exile. As the second son, he has led a life filled with frivolity, leisure, and a healthy dose of debauchery. Now his older brother has died, leaving the family’s flailing legacy in Duncan’s unwilling arms.
At the behest of his uncle, Duncan is advised to do the one thing that could provide instant fortune and respectability – he must marry. But there is only one prospect who meets the unique requirements to solve all the Earl’s problems – the lovely Miss Ambrosia Tisdale. But securing the prudent daughter of a Viscount’s hand proves to be more challenging than this scandal ridden second son of an Earl has bargained for.

With scandal, extortion, treachery, and even love itself threatening to keep him from his goal, will Duncan succeed in compromising Miss Tisdale?
READ AN EXCERPT
He stepped forward, a twig snapping under the force of his right boot. 
 She startled and turned.
She had been crying.  Even in the shadows he could see that her eyes were red and face blotchy from the trails of tears.  For once, Miss Tisdale did not look her best, and in that imperfection he found her to be the most enticing she had ever been.
Duncan fell into her eyes, endless pools framed with wet clumps of black lashes that drew him towards her.  And then her lips, already full, now swollen from her sobbing, parted slightly.  He was lost.  God help him, he was no longer intoxicated by brandy alone, but rather the beauty of one woman. 
Duncan reached up and cupped her face in his hands.  Without any words or pretense, he simply swooped down and kissed her.  It wasn’t a gentle kiss, nor was it rough.  It was certain and decided.  He kissed her ardently, holding her face and savoring the salty taste of her tears still wet on her lips. 
He waited for it to stop, for her to slap him or push him away.  But then she did something totally unexpected.  She grabbed his arms and kissed him back.  The action left him disarmed and completely infatuated.  This was the woman from the library whom he had come to remember.  And her kiss was not tentative as it once was - but now firm and without trepidation.  
BUY COMPROMISING MISS TISDALE

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To Russia with Love...the Regency World of Ally Broadfield

As winter settles in on chilly Melbourne, over in Texas, my friend Ally Broadfield is sweltering. Don't you love our cyber world?
Ally lives in Texas and is convinced her house is shrinking, possibly because she shares it with three kids, five dogs, a cat, a rabbit, and several reptiles. Oh, and her husband.  She likes to curse in Russian and spends most of her spare time letting dogs in and out of the house and shuttling kids around. She writes historical romance set in Regency England and Imperial Russia.
Ally I know you and I share a fascination for Russia (having visited it for the first time last year) so I am eschewing tea today in favour of vodka.  “ Na zda-ró-vye” (which means “Thank you” and in this context…thank you for being my guest today).  Do you have a favourite drink (alchoholic or not!)?
Thank you for hosting me today, Alison!
This choice is heavily influenced by the fact that I live in Texas and it’s summertime, but I’d have to say lemonade. There’s something so refreshing about its tart, sweet taste. I think it would be even better with a splash of vodka. (AS:  Defintitely improved with vodka... although Ms. Stuart's preference for a hot summer's day would be a gin and tonic or a Pimms)
What or who inspired your love of historical fiction and do you have a particular period that ignites your passion?
I’d have to give credit to author Jennifer Blake for my love of historical fiction. She wrote the first romance I ever read (when I was twelve), Royal Seduction. I like to read in many different periods, but Regency England and Imperial Russia during the reign of Alexander I are my favorites. (AS: It was a fascinating time in Russian history!)
Ballroom: Catherine's Palace at Tsarkoe Selo  Like you, I have visited the incredible palaces of St. Petersburg. I thought I had seen the world’s great palaces such as Versailles and Schonnbrun but nothing prepared me for Catherine’s palace at Tsarkoe Selo, even though, sadly, it is now a recreation (the original interiors having been destroyed during World War II) the grandeur was just intimidating. Will we be seeing a story set in Imperial Russia?
Ally in ST. Petersburg in 1987 (brave woman!)It is sad that nearly all of the palaces in St. Petersburg suffered heavy damage during World War II. You will definitely see some future stories from me set in Imperial Russia. For now, I can share that though the setting is Regency England, the sequel to Just a Kiss features Princess Anna Tarasova and a mysterious man from her past.


When you’re not writing, what is a typical day in your life?
I am lucky to be a full time writer, so there are very few days when I don’t write. The bulk of my non-writing time is occupied giving the appropriate amount of attention to my five dogs (as determined by them) and shuttling my three kids around to various activities. I manage to fit in time to read almost every day, and also enjoy watching movies. My oldest son has enlisted us all to watch the 100 greatest movies of all time during our summer break, but since there is some disagreement among experts as to the top 100 films, we will be watching closer to 115. So far we’ve managed to watch six.
Your debut story, JUST A KISS, was released by Entangled Edge on April 28th.  What was the inspiration for this story and is it going to be part of a series?
The idea for this story came from a short story I entered into a Jane Austen inspired contest in the spring of 2011. It was a continuation of Sense and Sensibility focusing on the youngest sister, Margaret. I didn’t win the contest, but I loved Sebastian so much I decided to write Just a Kiss so I could expand his story, and Charlotte gladly took over the role of Margaret.Just a Kiss is part of the It’s in His Kiss series and will be followed by three full length novels. As mentioned above, the second story in the series will feature Princess Tarasova from Just a Kiss, and will release in the spring of 2015.
It is always exciting to get that first sale… What is your “call story”?
My call was an email, but that didn’t make it any less exciting! I happened to stumble across a blog that was hosting a pitch event with editors from Entangled Publishing, so I wrote up a pitch for the story and posted it for the editor who was acquiring historical. She requested the full manuscript and I waited about twelve v-e-r-y l-o-n-g weeks before receiving the message that it had been accepted. The funny part was that I read the email while on my way out the door to take my boys to see Top Gun on Retro Movie Night at the local theater. I’m pretty sure I had a huge, possibly creepy (think The Joker), smile plastered on my face the entire time.
ABOUT JUST A KISS
Charlotte Lightwood has one season to find a husband or she'll be forced to marry her guardian's loathsome cousin. With no title or dowry, she doesn't have much hope of making a good match. Sebastian Wilkinson, the Earl of Marley, has been the most eligible bachelor on the marriage mart for more years than he cares to count and is very aware of his duty to marry a woman who will add to the wealth and stature of his title. Sebastian makes Charlotte an offer she can't refuse: he will pretend to court her to help her attract more suitors in exchange for her advice about which ladies he should pursue. As they work together, their mutual attraction grows. When they realize they just might be perfect for one another, they must decide whether to bow to the dictates of society or follow their hearts.
EXCERPT from JUST A KISS
Charlotte studied the man standing next to Elizabeth. Something about him instantly drew her to him, something in his confident bearing and the way a mischievous smile played across his lips. Laughter danced in his eyes.Elizabeth smiled brightly. “Lord Marley, may I present Miss Charlotte Lightwood.” She gestured to Charlotte. “Charlotte, this is Lord Marley.”Lord Marley took her hand, sending an unfamiliar sensation buzzing through her. They both froze for an instant before he bowed. “It is a pleasure to meet you. Lady Lightwood has assured me you are available for the next dance. Please soothe my nerves by confirming she is not mistaken.”Elizabeth nudged her, and in a whisper that could surely be heard on the other side of the ballroom, said, “Lord Marley is one of the most eligible bachelors on the market this season. He requested the introduction, though I can’t imagine why.” Heat rushed to her cheeks. “I am not engaged, my lord.” She surreptitiously glanced around them to see if anyone had heard Elizabeth.  Lord Marley clenched his jaw before leading her onto the dance floor. When the warmth of his touch penetrated the fabric of her gown, she inhaled the scent of sandalwood with a hint of citrus, and her pulse thrummed. She couldn’t prevent herself from flashing him a smile. The noise of the ballroom faded into a harmonious cacophony as they settled into the waltz.Overly wealthy, overly charming, overly good-looking, he could have any woman he desired. As she lacked both title and dowry, she could think of no reason why Lord Marley would have any interest in her. She narrowed her eyes.Lord Marley nodded to the couples surrounding them, but when he met her gaze, his serene countenance disappeared. “Why do you look at me with such abhorrence? I assure you I have no nefarious designs upon your person.”“I’m certain you have no designs, nefarious or otherwise, upon my person.” He smiled widely, but made no response.She lifted her brows. “Which begs the question, my lord, why did you request to dance with me?”He deftly swung her away from a collision with an encroaching couple. “Miss Lightwood, you are one of the most beautiful and sought-after ladies in attendance. I merely seek my turn to be the object of your attention. You must stop frowning at me or everyone shall think I’ve said something inappropriate.” His knee brushed against her leg through the thin silk of her gown, and the intimate touch sent a shiver through her.Though she couldn’t discern what he might want from her, she knew she couldn’t afford to alienate one of the richest and most powerful men in London. She softened her expression and immediately became lost in his clear blue eyes. His gaze captured and held hers for several heartbeats before he cleared his throat and spoke again. “I have a proposition for you.”
JUST A KISS can be purchased at AMAZON, Barnes & Noble and all reputable Ebook retailers

Connect with Ally:  Website: http://allybroadfield.com/Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/AllyBroadfieldFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/allybroadfieldTwitter: http://www.twitter.com/abroadfieldYouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZZ98KE4QU__pnI5mkiWAeg/about

From Rome to the Outback - the world of Eva Scott

It is always a pleasure to welcome one of my peripatetic writing friends to take tea with me. Eva Scott is an Australian writer of contemporary, coastal and historical romances and a stable mate of my publisher Escape Publishing. 

She may have a branding problem... but I prefer to call it diversity of subject! Whatever Eva Scott book you pick up you will love!


Welcome to my tea table, Eva. What is your preference? English Breakfast or something a little more exotic!

I’m rather partial to French Earl Grey – smells heavenly and tastes delicious.
(AS: I confess I have never tried French Earl Grey... it certainly looks pretty but does it have bergamot?)


You have lived and worked “overseas” but I am intrigued… where have you lived and what took you to foreign parts?

Love took me to Britain where I lived for 6 years (not with the same man I hasten to add). Boredom took me to Papua New Guinea. I was in a job I hated so I emailed everyone I knew and asked if anyone knew of a job for me. An old friend from my London days was living in PNG and there was a job…so I went…

And how did you meet your husband?

…and met the love of my life who was stationed in Port Moresby with the Australian Defence Force. It was pretty well love at first sight although it took us several years to actually get together.  Now he’s a writer too!

I thought I had difficulty putting a “label” on what I write but you are quite diversified… contemporary, coastal and historical romance (not all in the same book!).  How do you describe yourself and of the sub genres you write in, which really holds your passion!

Loads of people say you must define your brand – and on paper I agree with them.  I saw Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat Pray Love) speak once about story ideas being like birds which come to roost with you. If you don’t manifest them they leave and find someone else who will. All the stories which come to roost with me are very different from one another. Which means my branding is a train wreck! I really must do something about that…

You seem to be working on several stories at the same time. How does your writing process work?

I have a 3 year old boy so my process goes like this – put the computer on the kitchen bench and leave it on, opened on the current MS, write in snatches whenever there is a chance. Luckily for me my little lad is independent and doesn’t need my constant attention. In fact he often tells me to go away and work on ‘combuter’.  In the early stages of developing a storyline I do lots of character work and some basic plot work. I find that despite my best intentions my characters often ignore the plotline and do their own thing.
(AS:  I didn't start writing until my children were well past that stage. I think I would have driven myself around the bend!)

I love the concept of your Roman historicals,  THE LAST GLADIATRIX and THE BARBARIAN BRIDE which revolve around the concept of female gladiators. Where did the idea for these stories come from and will there be any more in the series?

THE LAST GLADIATRIX was completely different when I first wrote it. Titus was a god disguised as a Centurion. It was awful. The rewrite is much better and some say Titus is my best hero ever. BARBARIAN BRIDE spun off of THE LAST GLADIATRIX in response to a request from my editor to know what happened to Klara, a minor character. The very last book in the series (currently being polished) is about one of the hero’s sister, Alexandra, and how she navigates the treacherous waters of Roman society when she finds herself alone and under threat.

Moving away from the world of Roman Gladiators back to the present, I know you are very excited about the re-release of your three contemporary stories, THE RELUCTANT WEDDING PLANNER, MARRIAGE MAKEOVER and T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. How did this come about? 

These three books were my first foray into writing. The Reluctant Wedding Planner originally made the finalist list for the Romance Writers of Australia's Emerald Award before being contracted by Musa Publishing. Another two books followed and this year Musa Publishing decided to give them some new covers and let them loose on the world once more. My editor has a soft spot for Marriage Makeover while T'was The Night Before Christmas got terrific reviews on the college circuit. There is something for everyone in this trilogy and I'm delighted they've been given a fresh life.


THE RELUCTANT WEDDING PLANNER
Dr Camden James is a rural vet, not a wedding planner, so he quickly feels out of his depth when, in a fit of generosity, he offers to glam up his sister's budget wedding in a secret move designed to surprise her. With only six weeks to make this the wedding of his sister's dreams he needs to move fast.
Stumbling around in the largely female world of weddings he gets a lead on the go-to girl for wedding flowers - Georgiana Mac Intyre. Georgi, reeling from a very public breakup, is not interested in men in anyway shape or form. Not even super-cute vets - even when they are clearly interested in her. 
Cam shamelessly uses his story to get her to help. It has all the elements; romance against the odds, true love, orphans (you can't have good story without an orphan or two), and a bride.
MARRIAGE MAKEOVERNick and Talia Carmichael were childhood sweethearts. Grief over the death of their baby daughter from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome crushed their marriage. Talia moved to a new city, with a new career and life. Now it’s time to close the door on the past and ask Nick for a divorce.
Nick has other ideas. Once his wife, always his wife. He has no intention of letting Talia off so lightly and proposes terms and conditions to his agreement. It will mean moving back into their marital home, and force her to face long buried grief. Can she do as he asks?
Being with Nick causes her to question everything she thought was true. Has she made a mistake thinking her love for Nick is dead? Can he still love her? More importantly, can he again trust after everything they’ve been through?

T’WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS During her Christmas Eve performance, part time Burlesque dancer Miss Ginger Snap looks out into the crowd to see her first and only love, Clay Roberts. The man who broke her heart and betrayed her. The man who caused her to flee her home town to Sydney and never look back. Desperate to avoid him, she makes a mad dash for the last train back to her home town in time for Christmas.
For Clay time stands still as he recognises the dancer. He’s certain it’s Jessica King. She ran out on him at their high school graduation and he’s been searching for her ever since. After missing her train, Clay convinces Jessica to travel home with him.
Can Clay convince his one true love to give him the opportunity to atone and a second chance? Can Jess risk being hurt again by the man she loved?
ABOUT EVAEva lives on the Sunshine Coast, in Queensland Australia in the town which brought the world the Bee Gees. When she’s not writing romance you can find her out on the water kayaking, fishing or swimming. When on dry land it’s all about the shoes and the coffee (and old Bee Gees records).
You can find Eva on her Website, Facebook and Twitter
Her books are available directly from MUSA PUBLISHING or Amazon (see direct Links below)